What are the basic requirements to obtain a liquor license?
The resident applicant must be a Carroll County resident for a minimum
of two years prior to filing an application, must be a registered voter,
taxpayer, and a U.S. citizen. A comprehensive criminal background check
is required on all persons applying for a liquor license.

How and where do I apply for a liquor license?
Applications and accompanying documents are available in the Board's
office located at the County Office Building, 225 North Center Street, Room
113. Staff is available to provide assistance and answer questions Monday
through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

How do I obtain a criminal background report?
The necessary CJIS (Criminal Justice Information System) form is available with
the application packet. All applicants are required to appear in person with photo
identification for digital fingerprints at the CJIS Headquarters in Pikesville to
apply for this report. The Criminal Background Report must be received in the
Board's office prior to any application for a liquor license being heard by the
Board.

What is the cost of applying for a liquor license?
A $500.00 filing fee is required with all applications.

What occurs at a public hearing?
A public hearing is your opportunity to present your case to the Liquor Board.
Other interested parties attending the hearing are also given an opportunity to
speak regarding your application. Liquor licenses are issued based upon the
applicants being fit and proper persons as well as proving the need to accommodate
the public. The Liquor Board will make an oral decision (approval or denial) at
the conclusion of the public hearing. It will be followed up with an "official"
written decision within thirty (30) days of the oral decision.

May I appeal a decision of the Liquor Board?
An appeal of a Liquor Board decision must be filed within thirty (30) days of
issuance of the written decision to the Circuit Court for Carroll County.